Highlights
Historic Sites
India holds a vast array of historic gems that are waiting to be discovered. None more so than the Taj Mahal in Agra; a symmetrical masterpiece constructed out of glorious white marble by Shah Jahan as a memorial to his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, following her tragic death during childbirth. Perhaps Delhi’s historic sites will tempt you, especially the Red Fort or Humayun’s Tomb, which predates the Taj Mahal by sixty years and is thought to have inspired the design for the Taj Mahal. Jaipur’s most distinctive landmark, Hawa Mahal, is another extraordinary sight to behold, rising five storeys tall and showcasing a beautiful, pink-painted, honeycomb-effect façade – it will certainly leave you flabbergasted. The beautiful region of Goa is a must-visit, particularly Old Goa, where Basilica of Bom Jesus is situated, or the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception in Panaji, both of which provide stunning Colonial architecture and Portuguese influence.
Mouthwatering Cuisine
Take your tastebuds on a truly phenomenal culinary trip-of-a-lifetime. India is alive with spices and, with such a diverse repertoire of dishes, your mouth will be watering non-stop. With each region distinct from the last, be prepared for different traditions, preparation techniques and presentation styles – from beautifully marinated meats and thalis (Indian food platters), to exceptional seafood dishes and simple, yet delectable, vegetarian curries.
Bustling Cities
Where India excels is with its magical and enchanting cityscapes. The diversity is remarkable; each city you visit is totally different from the last, from ancient traditions and artistic heritage, to spectacular landscapes and culinary delights. Delhi exacerbates this diversity: experience the contrast between the charming Old Delhi, dating back to the 1600s, to the modern bustling metropolis of New Delhi, with its fascinating Colonial-era parliament buildings. Udaipur, on the other hand, sits on the shores of tranquil Lake Pichola, where the Aravalli Hills stretch as far as the eye can see. It is one of the most romantic locations in India. Visit the enchanting and historic Jaipur to discover India’s most flamboyant state.
Captivating Wildlife
India has some of the most bio diverse regions in the world, hosting four of the world’s thirty-five biodiversity hotspots. It is, therefore, no surprise that India is home to an extraordinary variety of wildlife, especially the renowned Bengal Tiger, which can be spotted in the beautiful region of Madhya Pradhesh, the pioneering state for wildlife conservation. Strict hunting regulations and the brilliant Project Tiger rehabilitation programme have brought these majestic animals back from the brink of extinction, thus they can be found here more than anywhere else in the world. Kerala also hosts excellent sanctuaries, including Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, where protected animals thrive, such as leopards, elephants, deer and much more.
Irresistible Beaches
Goa is the land of sun, sea and sand, a blissful retreat from the hustle and bustling streets of India’s major cities. Goa boasts a wonderful laid-back attitude, with a tropical vibe that is infectious to those who visit. Stay at a beachfront resort to experience the pristine sand and the azure of the Arabian Sea. Beautiful golden-sand beaches can be found in Kerala, boasting an exceptional 600-kilometre coastline, perfect for relaxing or enjoying watersports.